Page:A treatise on diamonds and precious stones including their history Natural and commercial.djvu/98

 interior to Rio de Janeiro, &c, The government Diamonds, however, form far the greater part of the trade. The district of Serro do Frio, where they are found, is of small extent, and the number of negroes constantly employed in washing for them, does not exceed two thousand. No one is allowed to enter this district without special permission; and if travellers are obliged to pass through it, they are always escorted by a soldier, and not allowed to make any stay. The principal town where the intendants and officers reside, is called Tejuco, but the mines or washings are at some distance from it. The Diamonds collected in the various parts of the district, are taken to the town, and secured in the treasury, in the presence of all, or at least three of the principal officers. They are annually sent to